At Tryon Medical Partners, we believe better relationships means better health. That’s why we became an independent medical practice of doctors who put patient relationships at the core of everything we do.
We are thrilled to see our doctors on the list of Charlotte’s Top Docs, compiled annually by Charlotte magazine. Meet the Tryon doctors across all eight specialty areas who have received this prestigious award.
Cardiology
David Framm, MD, FACC
Practicing Medicine Since: 1986
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Framm Says: “I have dedicated myself to promoting pre-activity in preventing and dealing with heart disease, as well as personal advocacy. With each patient, I look to find the right balance of nutrition, exercise, life stressors and medications to fit their needs.”
Patients Say: “He is knowledgeable, caring, thorough, straightforward and genuine. He is the perfect doctor for me!”
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Richard Miller, MD, FACC
Practicing Medicine Since: 1995
Seeing Patients In: Huntersville
Dr. Miller Says: “For me, the most rewarding aspect of practicing medicine is the privilege of improving the lives of patients. As physicians, we are entrusted with the health and wellness of patients who are often facing serious concerns. Their successes are extremely gratifying.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Miller is great in every way. The best! He has kept me living! Thank you, Dr. Miller!”
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Dale Owen, Jr., MD
CEO, Tryon Medical Partners
Practicing Medicine Since: 1986
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Owen Says: “Although I have pursued a career in the medical field, I remain a farmer at heart, with a keen interest in evergreen trees. I spend some of my free time rescuing unwanted evergreen trees from nurseries and planting them in the mountains.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Owen listens and hears everything you say. He is interested, genuine and committed to finding out what is going on, so he can help. He also takes the time to follow up in person.”
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Dermatology
Meredith Dasher, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2000
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Dasher Says: “One of my passions is supporting the American Academy of Dermatology’s Camp Discovery. It provides kids with chronic, often severe, skin conditions an opportunity to attend a free week-long summer camp with expert skin care providers on site.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Dasher is the best! Her compassion, knowledge and experience always make me feel like I am receiving the best care possible. She has given excellent care to all of my family members. I can’t recommend her highly enough!”
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Martie Jewell, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1999
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne
Dr. Jewell Says: “I am very passionate about the dermatology care I provide my patients. As a primarily medical dermatologist, my clinical areas of focus include early detection and prevention of skin cancer, including melanoma, as well as managing complex cases of psoriasis, acne and rosacea, eczema, and other skin disorders. I strive to treat each patient as I would want myself or my loved one treated. That approach is why I am proud to be a part of Tryon Medical Partners.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Jewell and her staff are phenomenal! I have recommended Dr. Jewell to friends several times. Always professional, caring and warm.”
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Patricia K. Roddey, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1990
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Roddey Says: “Interacting with a patient as an individual, spending a few moments each visit learning about their lives, is a wonderful privilege that makes my profession especially meaningful. Getting to know a patient on a personal level makes me more aware of the trust they have in me as their physician, and I try that much harder to take the best possible care of them.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Roddey is an exceptional professional. Always feel listened to and respected.”
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Endocrinology
Allen Brantley, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1996
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Brantley Says: “I became a physician in large part because of my grandfather. He was a small-town family doctor in Mooresville, North Carolina. When we spent time together, he would often share stories of what it was like taking care of patients. Being a physician was truly a calling for him. While in college, I felt a similar calling, and that commitment to being a physician continues today. I have a passion, like my grandfather did, for working with patients and striving to improve their health.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Brantley is a GREAT Doctor! I feel HONORED to get to see him!”
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SiSi Hester-Clarke, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2005
Seeing Patients In: Huntersville
Dr. Hester-Clarke Says: “Aside from my passion for being a doctor, I have been involved in dance since the age of two. My primary areas of interest are ballet and modern dance. I performed frequently in college and to a lesser degree in medical school, but I still take dance classes from Carolina Ballet dance studio when my schedule permits.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Hester-Clarke is great! She takes the time to really listen to me. Rather than telling me what to do, she gives me options, and really allows me to make informed decisions regarding my care and treatment.”
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Gary Rolband, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1990
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne, SouthPark & Waverly
Dr. Rolband Says: “Thanks to the nurses, physicians and staff at Barnes Hospital in 1977, I have a wonderful family and career. Helping people live their lives to the fullest is my greatest professional reward.”
Patients Say: “I have been a patient of Dr. Rolband’s for years and am now bringing my daughter to see him as a patient. He is an excellent endocrinologist.”
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Charles T. Upchurch, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2004
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark & Uptown
Dr. Upchurch Says: “The ability to form long-term relationships with thousands of interesting patients over many years is the great joy of being a physician. Not only do these relationships enrich our lives, but they simultaneously create satisfaction when we together overcome medical challenges.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Upchurch is the bomb! He is so kind, caring, understanding and patient. I wish every doctor I see was just like him. He definitely has a servant heart. I felt so confident that he knew what he was talking about. Plus he came highly recommended.”
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Gastroenterology
Amit Aravapalli, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2008
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne & SouthPark
Dr. Aravapalli Says: “Relationships with my patients are at the center of everything I do. I am committed to providing exceptional care, especially in reflux disease, esophageal motility disorders and colorectal cancer screenings.
I am an avid soccer player and fan. I even proposed to my wife during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil! One day, I hope to coach my daughter’s soccer team.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Aravapalli was completely attentive, answered every question and did not leave until I was finished. He was an absolute pleasure. Eased my concerns and explained everything thoroughly.”
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Oscar Brann, MD, FACP, AGAF
Practicing Medicine Since: 1997
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne & SouthPark
Dr. Brann Says: “The word “Doctor” has its root in the Latin word “Docere,” meaning teacher. The patient has the right and is encouraged to obtain from physicians and other direct caregivers relevant, current, and understandable information about his or her diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
I am retired from 20 years in the Navy Medical Corps as a Navy Captain. My interests outside of the office are travel, golf, cultural events, reading and dining.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Brann is the consummate physician. He is incredibly knowledgeable, kind, humble, professional and truly cares about the well-being of his patients. Dr. Brann is my guru for all things GI.”
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Kent Holtzmuller, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1982
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne, Huntersville & SouthPark
Dr. Holtzmuller Says: “I am a specialist in gastroenterology and liver disease, and began practicing in Charlotte in 2004 after a 23-year career as a physician in the United States Army, retiring at the rank of Colonel. During my last three years in the service, I served as gastroenterology consultant to the Army Surgeon General. I am board certified in gastroenterology and have additional certification in liver transplant hepatology. Overall, I could possibly be considered a boring person because I am constantly working, but I am lucky to be so passionate about what I do.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Holtzmuller was extremely helpful! Very good visit. Very thorough, and he asked a lot of questions.”
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Scott Smith, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1998
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne & SouthPark
Dr. Smith Says: “The best part of being a gastroenterologist with Tryon Medical Partners is our renewed emphasis on improving our patient relationships. I am a gastroenterologist because I enjoy helping patients with a wide variety of intestinal disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease, GERD, irritable bowel syndrome and metabolic disorders, among others. It is a great reward to realize we are able to help patients understand and treat their condition. I love the collaboration among patients, other doctors, physician assistants and healthcare providers as we strive to provide a team approach that consistently exceeds our patient’s expectations.”
Patients Say: “I was extremely pleased with Dr. Smith and would not hesitate to recommend him to others.”
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Internal Medicine
Anne Barnard, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1998
Seeing Patients In: Uptown
Dr. Barnard Says: “What I enjoy most about being a primary care physician is the continuity of the doctor-patient relationship over years and decades. It is a pleasure to partner with patients along the shared journey toward health and wellness. But more than that, it is a privilege to share in other aspects of their lives — to support them through life’s challenging moments and to celebrate their joys and successes. With this spirit of personal caring, the practice of internal medicine can become truly holistic.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Barnard is the best! She listens and answers all my questions. I highly recommend her.”
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Robert Bowen III, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1999
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Bowen Says: “I enjoy the outdoors. I love hiking, camping and sports, and am a Boy Scouts volunteer. I’m also a Tar Heel through and through. Go Heels!”
Patients Say: “Our whole family depends on Dr. Bowen for our healthcare needs. We trust him implicitly. He is incredibly knowledgeable and is brilliant at treating the WHOLE PERSON, not just the issue of the day. He is a master diagnostician. We have thought about moving out of the area on occasion, but consider Dr. Bowen a huge asset to our health and welfare. We feel greatly blessed to have been with him for 14 years.”
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Tina Kennelly, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2009
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Kennelly Says: “At one point in my life I had interests and hobbies, but now those take a back seat to running after four little ones at home! Some of my favorite things to do are watching my son play Little League, gardening and art projects with my three girls, and watching movies with my husband!”
Patients Say: “Dr. Kennelly is a very good listener and made me feel like she considered every possibility when handling my problems.”
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Eric Landis, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1997
Seeing Patients In: Pineville
Dr. Landis Says: “The reason I became a doctor was that I really wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. My father and grandfather were both physicians, and my brother is a mental health expert. Seeing the impact in the lives of their patients was always inspiring. Aside from my profession, my hobbies include fishing, cooking, college basketball, track and cross country, and spending time with my family.”
Patients Say: “I would highly recommend Dr. Landis to others. He is an excellent physician.”
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Pulmonary
Walid Eltaraboulsi, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2011
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne & Huntersville
Dr. Eltaraboulsi Says: “I am a huge soccer fan. So much so, that I’ve been to England and Spain to watch league matches, and I went to the World Cup in South Africa in 2010.
The Shifa Clinic, a free health clinic in Charlotte, is one of my biggest privileges. I helped start it, and continue to work to help take care of our underserved community here in Charlotte.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Eltaraboulsi is extremely proactive with me in dealing with my COPD problems.”
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James Jones, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1979
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Jones Says: “Food is powerful medicine to prevent and treat chronic disease. Please consider a whole food plant-based diet!”
Patients Say: “Dr. Jones is a very good listener and an exceptional communicator. He always puts me at ease and wants my input into my care. He is an outstanding physician.”
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Rheumatology
Diane George, MD, FACR
Practicing Medicine Since: 2005
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne & SouthPark
Dr. George Says: “Growing up in England, I was a huge fan of Sherlock Holmes. I love being a Rheumatologist because every patient interaction is unique, and like the famous detective, I’m required to draw from my training and experience to come up with innovative solutions which enable me to provide the best outcome for my patients.
When I’m not in the clinic, or keeping up with my garden, I enjoy visiting new places and traveling with my family.”
Patients Say: “Dr. George always listens to everything I have to say and never makes me feel rushed. She gives me options and I can tell that she genuinely cares about her patients.”
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Alison Johnson, MD, FACR
Practicing Medicine Since: 2005
Seeing Patients In: Huntersville & SouthPark
Dr. Johnson Says: “As a rheumatologist, I have the opportunity to follow my patients throughout their life. It is so rewarding to reassure them through the tough times and celebrate with them in the great times! I love to hear about their kids, grandkids, spouses and friends, their interests and hobbies; I love really getting to know who they are as a person. I think knowing who they are and what they love really helps me to come up with the best treatment plan.
When I am not at work, I love chasing around my little boy and cheering on my Clemson Tigers!”
Patients Say: “Of all my health providers, Dr. Johnson is far superior with professionalism, knowledge, kindness and care. She is reassuring and treats all of my questions as important. I never feel rushed or hurried. I trust her completely to treat and advise me. She’s wonderful!”
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Jill Zouzoulas, MD, FACR
Practicing Medicine Since: 2001
Seeing Patients In: Ballantyne & SouthPark
Dr. Zouzoulas Says: “The unique puzzle of each individual patient simply never gets old. The joy of forming a long-term partnership that leads to less pain, more mobility and a better life for a patient is enough to get me out of bed each day.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Z is the best provider I have ever had take care of me. I truly believe Dr. Z improved my quality of life by 100%.”
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Sleep Medicine
Eric Clemons, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 1999
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Clemons Says: “My favorite things include family game night, reading a good book on a shady porch, and the Arkansas Razorbacks. Woo Pig Sooie!”
Patients Say: “He is a good doctor and a good guy! Always takes time to discuss treatment and answer my questions.”
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Jacob Coleman, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2000
Seeing Patients In: Huntersville & SouthPark
Dr. Coleman Says: “Throughout my youth and adolescence, I had multiple medical issues. For that reason, physicians were my role models growing up. My primary physicians nurtured my curiosity and encouraged me to do well in school, which led to my pursuit of a career in medicine. I almost had to put my educational career on hold due to financial limitations when the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation gave me resources and connections to finish college and graduate school. I give back to ensure others have the same opportunities.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Coleman is a down-to-earth kind of guy that keeps you relaxed and relates to you as a person and not just a patient!”
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Ehrlich Tan, MD
Practicing Medicine Since: 2000
Seeing Patients In: SouthPark
Dr. Tan Says: “In my time away from the office, I love spending time with my wife and son. We enjoy biking trails, road trips, going to the beach and cruising. When we are home, we love low-key nights playing games with friends, watching movies and reading. Exercising is important to me too, and I try to run on a daily basis. And of course, I always love a good night’s sleep.”
Patients Say: “Dr. Tan listened to me and took time to hear concerns. His people skills are outstanding.”